Celebrating seniors: Left to Right, Deborah Thomas Social Seniors Activities Coordinator, Teresa Hobson Social Seniors RN Coordinator, Katrina Russell-Cargill Aged and Community Services Manager, Carol Watson Social Seniors RN Coordinator, Dorren Cramp Social Seniors client of 10 years, Juaques Kruger District Manager Integrated Care Initiatives, Doug Koppell Social Seniors Transport Coordinator.
Social seniors contribute to better health and happiness
Apr 05, 2024In March, the Social Seniors group in Port Macquarie celebrated the Seniors Festival with a party and a visit from Senior Constable Ruth Handley to chat about safety in the home and community.
The Social Seniors meet twice weekly in Port Macquarie and twice weekly in Laurieton to share stories, memories, food and cuppas, play games and generally socialise with their peers. These vulnerable clients are then able to be monitored and cared for by the NSW Health Social Seniors team; issues such as cognitive decline, falls and wounds can be addressed promptly, especially considering many do not have family living nearby to support them.
The group is a part of the NSW Health Aged Care program and does not require formal referral. Clients can be referred by GPs, health providers, family or friends. Loneliness contributes to decreased immunity, increased falls and more frequent GP and hospital presentations.
Community members who are 65 years or older and live in the community within the Hasting Local Government Area can join. The aim is to empower these people to continue to live in their homes safely and with dignity for as long as they choose. Clients who live in a Residential Aged Care Facility are not eligible.